Flathead Indian Reservation fire-danger level is moderate but rising
RONAN – Division of Fire officials want to update the public on the Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes fire danger. The Flathead Indian Reservations fire danger is at moderate, but is very close to high, especially on the west side of the reservation. Debris burning by permit will close for the fire season on Wednesday, June 30.
Weather forecasters predict hot and dry conditions by the end of the week with temperatures ranging into the 90s throughout the region. Due to increasing fire danger and changing conditions over this fire season, the public should be extra careful with campfires and fireworks. Produce one less spark by making sure your campfire is cold to the touch before you leave it at any time of day or night by drowning it with water and stirring it to expose residual heat. Have water and hand tools available on site when you have a campfire. CSKT Division of Fire would also like to remind the public that fireworks are prohibited on all state and federal classified forestlands. Since hot weather is forecasted, grasses will dry quickly and increase the potential for starting fires.
Nighttime and early morning patrols at area campgrounds and popular recreation sites have revealed that the vast majority of campers have been following fire safe practices with campfires or charcoal fires. Firefighters in the area want to extend thanks to those who have paid attention to fire safety.
Please do your part to ensure there is one less spark as a result of your outdoor activities in the heat of the afternoon.
- Mowing or haying tall grass where the blade can strike a rock
- Safety chains sparking on the road while towing a trailer
- Failure to have a spark arrester in your equipment's exhaust system in grassy areas
If a small fire becomes a full-blown forest fire, it could lead to arson charges, fines and even the bill for all fire-suppression costs.
Tremendous effort goes into preventive programs and information campaigns. Division of Fire officials want to stop human caused fires during this fire season.
If you have questions or concerns regarding this notice, please contact Division of Fire at 406-676-2550, or C.T. Camel, Prevention Specialist, at 406-676-2550 ext. 6407 or ct.camel@cskt.org.